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47 







A LIMB O' THE LAW 



% Comrtig in Efoo Sets 



By m. r: ORNE 

AUTHOR OF u THE COUNTRY SCHOOL," " A BLACK DIAMOND," ETC. 



4/tfZ * ^ 



BOSTON 

1892 



CHARACTERS. 

AUGUSTUS DE BENHAM ...... The " Limb o> the Law" 

MR. DE BENHAM The Parental Trunk 

CLEM BANCROFT A Stray Twig 

MR. GRAYHAM Who Trusts to the Limb 

KIT . . . . . . . . An Autumn Leaf 

JAMES . . . . . . . . '. A Green Leaf 

ALICE DE BENHAM A Flower 

JULIA GRAYHAM Another 

MRS. GRAYHAM A Third — a Little Faded 

"THE LADY IN BLACK" 



COSTUMES. 

Mr. De B. — Gray travelling-suit. 
Augustus. — Stylish modern costume. 

Mk. G. — Act I. — Modern costume. Act II. — Dressing-gown, gray wig. 
Mrs. G. — An elderly lady, richly dressed; cap and spectacles. 
Julia. — Young lady's modern dress. 

Alice.— Act /. — Travelling-costume, bag strapped across shoulders, etc. Act II. 
- Fashionably dressed. 
Clem . — Very fashionable. 

James. — Blue coat with brass buttons, top boots, etc. 
Kit. — Woolly wig, linen duster, large bright tie. 




Copyright, 189a, by Walter H. Baker & Co. 



1M¥^ 



A LIMB O* THE LAW, 



ACT I. 

Scene. — Elegantly furnished lawyer's office of Augustus De 
Benham. Desk littered with writing-materials, etc. Small office 
opening from centre back. 

Augustus {walking floor with hands in his pockets). What in 
time is a fellow going to do in this world with no money in his 
pocket, I'd like to know? and how's he going to get along? Talk 
about marrying — I can't support myself, much less a wife. Yes, 
I've got plenty of clients, I know; but, confound it all, I can't 
make both ends meet ! No matter how much money I earn, my 
expense column is always the longest. I wish I'd never seen Miss 
Grayham ! No, I don't either! I wish — well, of course, if I can 
get her, the old gentleman will settle something handsome on 
her— but no, Gus, old fellow, you mustn't think of that. By Jove ! 
I wish some rich old uncle would turn up, or that some old-maid 
aunt would die and fill my pockets for me. Well, let me see, I 
ought to hear from that advertisement to-day. " Nothing venture, 
nothing have," — a rather desperate venture on my part, but the 
deed is done, and it's too late to retract now, come what may. I 
feel desperate enough for anything. {Calls.) Kit! 

{Enter Kit.) 

Kit {ducking his head). Yes, s'ah, Ps de pusson dat bears dat 
synonym. 

Gus. You black rascal ! It would be hard to find a synonym for 
you. Take my hat and coat from the chair there and hang them 
up; the coat will need brushing first ; then take care of the office, 
and don't cut up any of your shines. I'm going into the little room, 
where I don't want to be disturbed. I have some writing to do 
and don't wish to see any one — do you understand ? 

Kit. Yes, sah ! I isn't hard ob hearin' yet. (Gus turns to 
leave.) Say, Massa Bedlum, Ps got a conundrum fer you dis 
mawnin ! Where was potatoes fus found? 

Gus. That's no conundrum ; that's a question. They were 
first found in Peru, South America. 

Kit. No, sah. Guess again. 



4 A LIMB O THE LAW, 

Gus. Have you been reading up about this, you rascal? It was 
either Chili or Peru. I'm very sure it was Peru. 

Kit. No, sah. Dey's found in de ground ! Yah ! yah ! yah ! 
{Turning somersault.) 

{Exit Gus hurriedly. Kit tries on Gus's coat, hat, gloves, etc. 
Finds candy in pocket, which he eats.) 

Kit. Specs I's Massa Bedlum now, for sho. Dis yer coat an' 
hat fit me zackly. Golly, heah's a letter ! Wonder ef I kin read it. I 
nebber hed a lub-letter, an 1 I 'd like ter know how it feels ter read one. 
{Glances about suspiciously, then listens at door of small office) 
Dat's all right. {Reads.) My dear Sally — {Looks surprised.) 
Dat's a new one, dat is. Dat's de name ob my gal ! {Jumps up.) 
Ef that villain in dar {shaking his fist) has been writin' a lub-letter 
ter my Sal, I'll — I'll hab de law on him! {Examines it again.) 
Dar, now, all dat steam up fur nuffin. It's "My — dear — Sam." 
No — no 'tain't. It's " My dear Son." Dat's it prezackly. Dere's 
no lub 'bout dis yer, bet yer life ! {Reads.) " I will pay you your 
next quarter in advance. You — must — make — this — do. Your 

— extravagance — is — a — great — source — of — annoyance — to 

— me, — and — in — spite — of — the — liberal — allowance which 
I give you — you" — Hark! what's dat? {Hastily puts letter in 
pocket and takes off hat, coat, etc.) 

{Enter Clem.) 

Clem. Well, Kit, what are you doing here? You look guilty. 
What pranks have you been up to, eh ? 

Kit. Golly, Massa Clem. I t'ought you's de debbil fur sartin. 
{Hurriedly arranging furniture, etc.) I's taking care ob de office. 

Clem. Do you think I look like his satanic majesty, Kit ? 
Where's your master ? 

Kit. Dunns, Massa Bancroff. S'pose his botanic majesty's 
gone out. 

Clem. Ha, ha, ha! That's a good one ! His "botanic maj- 
esty!" Ha, ha, ha! You say "you suppose he's gone out" — 
out where, you black domino ? « 

Kit. Dunno whar, Massa Bancroff. Specs he's down town, 
somewhar. 

Clem. Now see here, Kit, you're lying to me, and you know 
it. {Pointing to hat and coat, etc.) Does your master generally 
forget his hat and coat when he goes down town ? 

Kit {throwing up both hands in surprise and consternation). 
Well, I declar' ter gracious ef he ain't gone off widout his close ! 
He's a-gettin' orful absent-minded ob late, Mars Clem. You'll hab 
ter kind ob talk ter him. I's discouraged myself, I hab ter look 
after him so much. It's a awful 'sponsibility, sah. Now jest think 
ob dat dude a-wanderin' down town bareheaded. I's mos' dis- 
tracted ! 

Clem. Come, now, Kit, here's a quarter for you. I'm in a 



A LIMB O THE LAW. 5 

hurry, and I want to see Mr. De Benham right off. Come, that's 
a good fellow ! 

Kit {taking money). Dunno whar he is, Mars Bancroff. He 
tole me he was gone out, — he didn't say whar, — an' was goin' ter 
be busy, an' couldn't see no one nohow ! 

Clem. Well, he'll see me, you scapegrace. I'll warrant he's 
no farther than the little office. Tell him that I'm in a hurry. (Kit 
peeps into small office and ducks his head just in time to escape 
a book thrown at him by Gus.) 

Gus {behind scenes). Shut that door ! 

Kit {to Clem). No, sah. He ain't in dar. {Exit.) 

Clem. I'll see for myself. Hello, Gus ! {Enter Gus.) Seems 
to me you're excited this morning ! 

Gus {shaking hands). Ah, Clem, is that you ? Take a seat, 
old fellow. Take a seat. Well, how do you do ? Haven't seen 
you since you returned from New York. How are you ? 

Clem. I'm all right, Gus, and how are you getting along? 

Gus. Same old story, Clem, — over head and ears in love and 
debt, that's all. Have a Havana ? 

Clem. Don't care if I do, but I'm not smoking as much as I 
did. Think I shall give it up by and by altogether. It's bad for 
the constitution. Well, and how's the governor? 

Gus. He's gone to Philadelphia for the next three months or 
more. He had let his city residence, you know, and was prepar- 
ing to reside at his country seat in Springville ; was looking round 
for servants, in fact, when he was called away on business. He 
secured a gardener, however, and the grounds and stables are well 
looked after. A fine dog-cart went down yesterday. He probably 
won't be home till November, though. 

Clem. I presume he went alone. 

Gus. Ah ! I see where the land lies now. Yes, my dear boy, 
Alice is visiting the Sanborns at Nahant. 

Clem. Ah, indeed ! Of course your father came down hand- 
somely, Gus ? 

Gus. He gave me a check for my quarter's allowance in ad- 
vance. That's all. 

Clem. Have you drawn the money? 

Gus. My dear fellow, it will take every cent of it to pay my lasi; 
quarter's debts. 

Clem. The deuce ! What a stupid proceeding ! 

Gus. Can't help it, Clem, my creditors were pressing. In fact 
{walking floor with ha7ids in pockets), I have had to compound 
with them for the credit of the bar. 

Clem. Does the governor know of this ? 

Gus. No, sir. {Aside.) And he never will, if I can help it. 

Clem. Well, this state of things can't last forever. At what 
hotel are you stopping? 

Gus. Oh, I'm trying to economize just now. I've taken up my 
lodgings here on the lounge, and dine at a cheap restaurant. 



6 A LIMB O THE LAW. 

Clem. Pshaw ! a pleasant way of spending the next three 
months certainly. I came for you to take a run down to Long 
Branch with me, and I find you in this predicament, — confined to 
an office all day, eight hours' hard work at least, cheap food, your 
rest a narrow sofa — why, my dear fellow, you'll certainly break 
down under it ! 

Gus {slapping Clem on shoulder). On the contrary, Clem, I 
mean to make a change right off and live like a nabob. I shall 
shut up my office for a month at least, have a retinue of servants 
at my command, drive round in a dog-cart, eat the best dinners 
the market can provide, and have a little cash to spare. 

Clem. Ah ! what have you done ? bought a Louisiana lottery 
ticket? 

Gus. You are joking, but I never was more in earnest in my 
life. {Takes newspaper from the desk.) Just listen to this: 
{Reads.) '• To Let — Furnished. — A genteel country residence, 
four miles from town, with fourteen rooms furnished in modern 
style ; stable, granary, and large garden stocked with the choicest 
fruits, near a railroad and omnibus station. Part of rent will be 
taken out in board by advertiser. Terms made known on applica- 
tion to G. D., Transcript office." 

Clem. Hang it, man ! you aren't going to let your own father's 
house, are you ? 

- Gus {coolly). That's my plan. Why should the house remain 
empty a whole quarter, and no one get any good of it. It is said 
that fortune knocks at a man's door but once in a lifetime ; if he 
does not let her in then he loses her. I shall admit her. 

Clem. I sincerely hope that you will not open your door to mis- 
fortune. Have you thought what all this will entail ? You are 
about to take strangers in your father's new house ; the carpets and 
furniture will be spoiled, Gus. 

Gus. Oh, no! I shall see to it that the tenants are highly re- 
spectable. 

Clem. If you take my advice, you won't do anything of the 
sort. 

Gus. Well, then, I sha'n't take your advice. Clem ; my mind is 
made up, and your arguments will be of no avail. 

Clem. Well, it's none of my business, but I wouldn't do it for 
a thousand dollars. If it shouldn't succeed it won't be the first 
scrape you've got into, you know, and I advise you to look before 
you leap this time, Gus ; I don't suppose it's any use to talk if your 
mind's made up. By the way, when is Alice coming home? 

Gus. She's been gone only two weeks, you know, and she wrote 
last Tuesday that she intended to go to the " Mountains " with her . 
friends. So she's all right, you see. 

Clem. Well, your arrangements seem perfect enough. I'm 
sorry you've undertaken it, but since you have, may you be suc- 
cessful. (Looking at watch.) Nine o'clock, and I'm to take the 
9.30 train for Hyde Park. {Shaking hands.) Well, good-by, 
old fellow. Hope you'll come out all right. 



A LIMB O THE LAW. J 

Gus. Good-day, Clem. {Airily.') Call up to the house and 
dine some day, and see tor yourself. 

Clem. Thank you, I'll do so. Good-morning. (Exit.) 

Gus {rubbing hands) . So far, so good. Now to cage my bird, 
in other words, secure a tenant. Kit ! 

Kit (limps in with one boot off, which he holds in o?ie hand and 
a blacking-brush i?i the other). Yes, sah, heah I is wid all my im- 
pedimenta, sah. 

Gus. Go to the Transcript office and see if there is anything 
there for me. 

Kit (drawing on boot). Yes, sah. Shall I tell dat Mr. Tran- 
script who it for ? 

Gus. Of course, you blockhead ! How'd' you suppose he'd 
know ? 

Kit. Yes, sah ! all right, sah. (Exit.) 

Kit (re-entering). Is dat Mr.Transcript de one wid — ? 

Gus. Confound it, stupid! Haven't you gone yet ? (Seizes his 
cane, upon which Kit makes a hasty exit.) 

Kit (as he goes). Yes, sah, I's mos' dar now! 

Gus. That confounded negro ! His impudence would exhaust 
the patience of Job himself, if he were here. Well, let me see what 
is to be done to-day. Those papers of Mrs. Mayo are finished, but 
there's Smithson's case to look up, some half-dozen letters to write, 
and — (Knock at door. Enter " Lady in Black.") Ah ! Good- 
morning, madam. Pray be seated ; those papers will be ready in 
a few moments. Please excuse me. (Goes to small office and re- 
appears with papers?) There is no doubt but that the jury will 
render a verdict in your favor, and the rightful heirs will come into 
possession of the property. I advise you to have as little to say 
about the matter as possible, as I have evidence that you are 
watched and that the prosecution mean to push the case as far as 
they can. 

L. in B. You are very kind, Mr. De Benham, and if you are 
successful in obtaining this suit for me, I shall reward you liber- 
ally. (Rising.) 

Gus. Don't mention it, madam. It is all in the way of busi- 
ness, you know. (Showing client to the door.) 

L. in B. Your office is open afternoons, I believe ? 

Gus. Yes ; for the present. 

L. in B. I will call for the other papers this afternoon. 

Gus (bowing her out). Very well, madam. Good-morning. 

(Enter Kit, out of breath.) 

Well, what did you learn? Stop your confounded acting and 
give me the letters, if there are any! You ought to belong to a 
minstrel show. It has taken you over five minutes to take a 
minutes' walk, and you come back out of breath. Come, speak ! 

Kit (wiping perspiration from face with a red ba?idanna). 
Golly, Massa Bedlum ! I's rund dis yer head mos' off, so it's 



8 A LrMB O' THE LAW. 

stopped my bref. Dat yer man say I was jess in time, for dar was 
a gen'man dar what was enquiring fer you. 

Gus {impatiently}. Well, did you bring him up? 

Kit {rolling eyes in pretended surprise). Law, no, sah. Golly, 
he's too big ! 

Gus {sternly). Answer my question ! 

Kit {uneasily). Yes, sah, Fs gettin' roun 1 ter dat. You see, 
he couldn't come jess den, so I gib him your 'dress. Was dat all 
right, sah ? {Rap at door.) 

Gus. There's a knock; after admitting whoever it may be, you 
may take that package of letters on the table to the office, and mind 
you don't stop to play base ball on the way. Do you understand ? 

Kit {in surprise). Now, how'd you know I 's been playin' 
base ball dis yer mawnin' ? 

Gus. What's that sticking out of your pocket ? 

Kit {taking out a ball and looking at it in surprise). Some ob 
dem Irish hoodlums been playin' a joke on me. {Snatches letters 
and opens door, admitting MR. Grayham.) 

Gus. Ah, good-morning, sir. {Places chair.) 

Mr. G. Good-morning. Mr. De Benham, I believe? (Gus 
bows.) I called, sir, in consequence of your advertisement in the 
Transcript. 

Gus. You have an idea of spending a few months out of town ? 

Mr. G. Exactly, sir; for three months only. I hope your place 
will be satisfactory, for I have already looked at three places this 
morning, and none of them is what I desire. The price is no con- 
sideration whatever, provided I get something to suit me. 

Gus. It is one of the finest places you ever saw, sir. The 
rooms are large and airy ; the furniture entirely new ; scenery mag- 
nificent ; location healthy; grounds beautiful and well kept, and 
the driving and fishing everything that could be desired ; I think 
you will like it, sir. 

Mr. G. Well, if you have no objections, I will drive round this 
afternoon, and if everything is satisfactory we shall wish to take 
possession immediately. 

Gus. What family have you, sir? 

Mr. G. Only my wife, daughter, and self. 

Gus. And you have no objections to taking me to board ? I'm 
not much trouble in a house. 

Mr. G. None whatever. Pray, what are your terms ? 

Gus. One thousand dollars for the season ; that is for three 
months. I will allow you ten dollars a week for my board ; that 
takes off one hundred and thirty : balance eight hundred and seventy 
dollars. 

Mr. G. If I conclude to take it, I will call here to-morrow and 
pay you in advance. 

Gus. As you please, sir. 

Mr. G. {rising). My name is Grayham, of the firm of Godfrey, 
Grayham & Co. ' {Passing card.) My business card ; I am the 
senior partner. Good-morning. {Exit.) 



A LIMB O THE LAW. 9 

Gus. Good-morning, sir. {Excitedly .) Grayham ! One daugh- 
ter ! What if it proved to be she I met at the Browns' the other 
night ! It can't be, and yet the name is an uncommon one. He 
might be her uncle or her cousin, but it cannot be her father. Why, 
it almost drives me mad to think of it — and I'm to board in the 
family, too ! (Sits at desk in deep revery. Door opois and his 
sister enters with small dag strapped across shoulders.) 

Alice. Hullo, Gus; how do you do? Poor fellow, I believe 
you've got the blues, moping in this old office all day long. O 
Gus ! I've had just the loveliest time you ever knew of in all your 
life ; but it does seem rather good to get back home again. I've 
sent all my trunks right on to Springville ; I thought the gardener 
would see to them all right, and didn't want to bother you. Why, 
Gus, what is the matter ? You don't seem very glad to see me, I'm 
sure. 

Gus. Alice, what in the name of common-sense are you here 
for? 

Alice. What am I here for ? Where should I be? We changed 
our minds about going to the mountains, so I came home — thought 
you'd be lonesome alone in the house and father gone away. 

Gus (pacing floor). Gracious, Alice! Come home! Then 
you'd better go back again ! 

Alice. The idea, Gus De Benham ! I've just as much right to 
stay at home as you have, and, what's more, I shall, too. (Sits.) 

Gus (aside). Well, I've got myself into*a pretty scrape ! What'n 
thunder am I going to do about it? 

Alice. Are you crazy, Gus, or practising for a pedestrian, or 
what's the matter ? I'm thoroughly out of patience with you. The 
.house hasn't burned down, has it? I hope it hasn't, for the San- 
borns are coming next Monday to stay the rest of the summer. I 
told them what a lovely romantic place we have, so they changed 
their minds about going to the mountains, and are coming here with 
all their servants and all the children. Won'Ht be lovely ! Papa 
said I might invite them, you know. Of course I wouldn't ask 
them on my own responsibility, although they are such old friends 
of the family. 

Gus (desperately). Alice, you may as well write and tell them 
they can't come, for the house is full of company now. 

Alice. I shall do no such thing! I'd like to know what right 
you have to invite company to papa's house without his permission. 
You needn't think that because he is away you are going to dictate 
to me. 

Gus. Alice, I don't know that it's any of your business whom 
I invite to the house. 

Alice. It is my business when papa's given me permission 
to have my company ; but I'm not going to quarrel with you. 
Where are the keys to the house ? 

Gus. You can't have them. 

Alice. Then I'll telegraph to father ! 



IO A LIMB O THE LAW. 

Gus. Confound father ! 

Alice {looking horrified). Fine language to use in the presence 
of a lady, and that lady your sister. What would poor mamma say 
to hear you talk so. 

Gus. Come, now, Alice, I beg your pardon ; but it's no use, the 
Sanborns can't come. 

Alice. Why not, sir, pray? I have papa's permission. I 
believe yours is not necessary, since he owns the house. 

Gus {aside). I've got myself into a tight fix, and I might as well 
tell her the whole story. I think she'll help me out. ( To Alice.) 
Well, I'll tell you, if you'll listen to reason. 

Alice. When a man deigns to give a woman a reason, he has 
some selfish motive for it. 

Gus. You are sarcastic, but I'll overlook it and proceed. The 
fact is, I am some two or three hundred dollars in debt — 

Alice. That's no news. I never knew you to be out of debt. 

Gus {without noticing the interruption). And I want to get 
out of it. 

Alice. Well that is news ! but filling the house with company 
won't do it. 

Gus {curtly). It isn't polite to interrupt, remember! I've let 
the house to a Mr. Grayham for the season. 

Alice {rising). Augustus De Benham ! 

Gus. And now what are you going to do? I've made arrange- 
ments to board in their family. 

Alice. What will father say ? 

Gus {dubiously). I know it, but it can't be helped now. And 
he'll never know it unless you tell him. 

Alice. Well, I've just as much right to board in the family as 
you have. 

Gus. But you can't. It's all arranged. 

Alice. But I will. See if I won't. 

Gus. Now, Alice, don't go and make a fuss. 

Alice {laughing). It's becoming in you to talk about making 
fusses. You can make arrangements with this Mr. Graybeard or 
Grayham — whatever his name is — to take another boarder, that's • 
all. 

Gus. But supposing he won't ? 

Alice. Then you'll either tell him the whole story, or — or — r — r 
— I'll hire myself out to them as waiting-maid, or something of 
that sort. Now, how romantic that would be, wouldn't it ? A 
wealthy young heiress, whose father and brother are prominent 
lawyers, hiring herself out as waiting-maid. It's perfectly lovely ! 
How I hope they won't want another boarder ! You wouldn't dare 
to write papa about it, you know. Oh, I'm real glad I came home! 

Gus {in despair). Alice, you won't do anything of the sort. 

Alice. Try it. 

Gus. But the Sanborns ? 

Alice. Oh, yes ! I'll write to them immediately, and relieve 



A LIMB O THE LAW. T I 

you of that ; but you must arrange about the board, remember. 
{Aside.') I wonder what they'll think? If I write them that the 
house is already full of company, they'll be sure to mention it to 
papa the next time they see him, and then will come the denoue- 
ment. If I were Gus I should feel that the sword of Damocles 
hung over my head all the time. Well, it is none of my affair any- 
way. He'll have to get out of the scrape the best way he can. He 
can wheedle papa into believing almost anything, so I'll do it. 
{Looking over desk.) Are the paper and ink here, Gus ? 

Gus. In the little office you'll find what you want. {Puts on 
coat and hat. Aside.) By Jove ! this is the worst scrape I ever 
was in. {To Alice.) I'll be back within an hour. You can 
give your letter to Kit to mail. {Exeunt both.) 

CURTAIN. 



ACT II. 

{Two months supposed to have elapsed.) 

Scene. — Handso?nely famished drawing-room of the De Benham 
ma?ision. Alice and Julia near window working with bright- 
colored silks and worsteds. Mr. Grayham asleep in chair. 

Julta. So you say that Augustus does not own this house, 
Alice? I am greatly surprised. 

Alice. Yes, but don't let Gus know that I told you, and don't 
for the world tell your mother and father about it. Gus is so 
headstrong. He never stops to" consider consequences, and is 
always getting himself into scrapes. You see, father went away two 
months ago to stay till October, possibly till November, and Gus 
thought it would be fine to let the house while he was gone, and 
not let him know anything about it. The fact is, he was two or 
three hundred dollars in debt, and he wanted to clear himself. I 
honor him for his motive, but I fear his method was not the best. 

Julia. No ; "Two wrongs never made aright." He made a 
great mistake in getting into debt, and another in his means of 
freeing himself from it. If your father finds it out, which is quite 
likely, he will be very angry. Of course he cannot attach any 
blame to my father, as he is entirely ignorant of the way matters 
stand. There is a carriage coming up the avenue. Who can it 
be ? It's a stout gray-haired gentleman in a light suit. 

Alice {looking out). Why, it's father De Benham! What 
shall we do, Julia? 

Julia. Your father! 

Alice. Yes — poor Gus ! Come, let's not meet him yet. 
We'll go to our rooms and come down when the excitement's over. 



12 A LIMB O THE LAW. 

{Exeunt Alice and Julia at oite door. Enter Augustus at 
another with newspaper ; sits at window.) 

Gus. This is rather comfortable. A fellow can enjoy life and 
take comfort living in this style. What a delightful two months 
I've spent ! and Julia has promised to be my wife. Her father is 
going to give her a handsome dowry, and she promises that the 
wedding-day shall come off soon. How soundly the old gentleman 
sleeps ! Surely this is dolce far niente ! I think it must have been 
an inspiration that put the idea into my head of letting the place. 
As soon as the time expires I shall put everything in apple-pie 
order, and the governor will be none the wiser for it. 

{Enter Mr. De Benham with travelling-bag.') 

Gus {springing up) . You here, sir ! 

Mr. De B. You here, sir? How came you to think of opening 
the house ? I have travelled day and night. Did you expect me 
so soon ? 

Gus. N — no, sir, — I — but — I — I thought you would not 
dislike it! 

Mr. De B. Oh, no ! Not at all — not at all! Very thoughtful 
on your part. Saved me a vast amount of trouble. Went up to 
your office, but you were gone. Servants here ? 

Gus. Yes, sir. 

Mr. De B. Pretty good ones, eh ? 

Gus. Well, they average pretty fair. {Aside.) How'n the 
deuce shall I manage this affair now? 

Mr. De B. Well, it's about dinner-time, isn't it? Travelling 
makes a man hungry. 

Gus. Yes, sir, it is, — that is, I believe it is — almost. 

Mr. De B. {impatiently). Well, well, then let's have dinner ; 
I'm hungry as a bear. 

Gus {nervously). Just one moment, father ; I — desire — a — to 
explain that I have some friends staying with me, — very respectable 
people, I assure you, sir, — the Grayhams ; do you know them? 

Mr. De B. Grayham, Grayham — no, but I've heard the name. 

{Enter Mrs. Grayham.) 

Gus. This is my father, Mrs. Grayham. Mrs. Grayham, Mr. 
De Benham. {Bow and shake hands.) 

Mrs. G. I am very glad to meet you, Mr. De Benham. Feel 
yourself welcome, and make yourself at home. 

Mr. De B. {in surprise) . Eh ? Thank you, ma'am. 

Mrs. G. Won't you stop with us and take dinner? It will 
soon be ready. 

Mr. De B. Well, ma'am, I had intended to do so. {Aside.) 
Very hospitable, considering this is my own house. 

{Enter Julia with note.) 

Gus. Father, this is Miss Grayham. {They bow and shake 
hands.) 



A LIMB O THE LAW. 13 

Julia. I am glad to meet you, Mr. De Benham. 

Mr. De B. {pleasantly}. Thank you, Miss Gray ham ; you do me 
honor. 

Julia. Mother, here is a note which a boy just brought, and is 
now waiting for an answer. 

Mrs. G. A note ? Thank you, Julia. I wonder whom it is 
from. If you will excuse me, Mr. De Benham, I will — 

Mr. De B. {bowing). Certainly, certainly, Mrs. Grayham. Do 
not let me detain you. I trust you will proceed as you would have 
done before my arrival. 

Mrs. G. Thank you, sir. {Aside?) What a queer old fellow ! 
{Exit.) 

Julia. You will dine with us, sir? 

Mr. De B. {coolly). I rather think I shall, young lady. 

Gus {hastily). You're tired and dusty, father ; won't you come 
to my room ? 

Mr. De B. {testily). No, sir! I'll go to my own room, and I'll 
call the butler to dust me when I'm ready. I want to see how 
things look. With what taste would your poor mother, it she were 
alive, have arranged everything. 

{Enter Alice.) 

Alice. Why, papa De Benham! How delighted I am to see 
you! I have been just pining to have you come home! (Gus 
shows his vexation in pantomime.) 

Mr. De B. Well, well, Alice, you here too ? I thought you 
were at the Sanborns'. 

Alice. Oh, well, I was ; but — why, — a — I concluded to return 
home sooner than I had planned. Thought Gus would be lone- 
some, you know. 

Mr. De B. Humph ! He seems to have plenty of company, 
just now. (Julia wakes her father .) 

Julia. Father ! Here is a gentleman. 

Mr. G. Eh ? {Hastily rising and rnbbing eyes.) 

Mr. De B. '{aside to Gus). Clodhoppers on my new velvet 
chairs ! 

Julia. This is Mr. De Benham, father. 

Mr. G. Bless me, sir! I'm afraid I was vulgar enough to doze. 
Mr. De Benham, I'm happy to see you. Pray sit down, sir. 

Mr. De B. Thank you. I prefer walking about. {Aside to 
Gus.) Curse his impudence ! asking me to be seated in my own 
house. Are these people all lunatics ? 

Gus {aside to his father). He is odd; very peculiar, but one 
of the best of men. {Aside to Mr. G.) He is eccentric, very ; 
always was, but you mustn't mind it. 

Mr. G. (looking at watch). Why, bless us, it's nearly dinner- 
time ! You will dine with us, will you not, enfamille? 

Mr. De B. {arranging books, chairs, and so forth, to his own 
satisfaction). I intended to, most certainly. Travelling makes a 



14 A LIMB O THE LAW. 

man hungry, and as the country air probably produces a similar 
effect on you, I shall make no apology for ordering dinner imme- 
diately. {Rings. Enter James.) Dinner directly, Sam. 

{Exeunt Alice and 'Julia laughing?) 

James {loftily). James, sir ! {Looks to Mil. G.) 
Mu. G. Serve the dinner if it is ready, James. {Aside.) Con- 
found the man's impudence ! 

{Exit ]amf.s, followed by Mr. G.) 

Mr. De B. Hang his insolence ! Must he tell my servants 
what to do ? 

Gus (nervoztsly). Don't mind him ! He — he's my best client. 
I — I mustn't lose him, you know. He doesn't mean anything. I 
— he doesn't know any better, you know. 

Mr. De B. What'n the deuce ! Do you suppose I keep open 
house, sir, for your crazy clients? No, sir. I'll turn him out, and 
you, too, you vagabond ! 

Gus. There, don't get excited, father. You — you're tired. Sit 
down and rest, sir. 

Mr. De B. {excitedly). What! Am I to be ordered about, by 
my own son, too ! I'd like to know the meaning of these strange 
proceedings ! Explain yourself ! How long do these people pro- 
pose to remain here ? 

Gus. I — I — 1 haven't asked them, sir. 

Mr De B. Well, the sooner they leave, the better. 

Gus. Sir, I — I hope you will treat them with the respect they 
merit. Mr. Grayham belongs to one of the best known, and one 
of the most respectable firms in the city. They are here at my 
invitation and — and — 

Mr. De B. And you expect me to support them and bear their 
insolence ! Why, their confounded impudence would be ludicrous 
if it were not exasperating. The idea of their inviting me to sit at 
my own table, and trying to make me feel at home in my own house ! 

Gus. Yes, sir, I — I feel your position, sir. {Aside.) Confound 
it all ! I've a mind to make a clean breast of it. {To his father.) 
Hem ! — the fact is — 

{Enter Mr. G.) 

Mr. G. I hope you will make yourself at home, Mr. De Ben- 
ham. I presume you will pass the night with us. 

Mr. De B. {astonished). Where'n the name of common-sense 
did you suppose I'd pass it, if not here? 

Mr. G. {with dignity). Very well, sir, when you are ready I 
will show you to your room — the blue chamber. 

Mr. De B. I am much obliged ! but if it is all the same to you, 
sir, I prefer to select my own apartment. 

Mr. G. Mr. De Benham ! your — 

{Enter Clem, Bancroft, Alice, and Mrs. G. Mr. G. turns 
and walks to window.) 



A LIMB O THE LAW. 1 5 

Mr. De B. Ah! Clem, how do you do? Shake hands. Glad 
to see you, my boy. Well, you look happy. 

Clem. Never was more so in my life, sir. {With a sly look at 
Gus.) Gus and I have been enjoying ourselves hugely. I don't 
believe Gus has had such a good time since he played that joke on 
me at college once. (To Gus.) You remember it, old fellow, of 
course. I'm only waiting to get square with you, you know. 

Gus. Oh, you must let bygones be bygones, Clem. You were 
having all the game to yourself, and we wanted a little fun too. By 
the way, Mr. Grayham, allow me to present to you my friend Mr. 
Bancroft. You have never happened to meet him when he has 
been here before. {Aside.) I do believe he is up to some game. 

Clem. I'm happy to make your acquaintance, Mr. Grayham. 

Mr. G. {stiffly). Thank you. 

Mr. De B. You are just in time, Clem, to take dinner with us. 

Clem. Thank you, sir ; I shall be most happy. 

Mr. G. Really ! Mr. De — (Julia seizes his arm and whispers 
in his ear. Mr. G. shows his resentment to her in pantomime.) 

Clem. Well, Gus, how do you like boarding nowadays ? 

Gus. Well enough. {Aside.) Let up now, Clem, and give 
me a rest. 

Clem. It's a good thing for a change, don't you think so, Mr. 
De Benham ? 

Mr. De B. Well, I never tried it much myself. I should think 
it might be though. 

Mr. G. {To Clem significantly). It isn't necessary for some 
people to board, young man ; they live on the incomes of their 
friends. 

Mr. De B. Ah ? {Adjusting eyeglasses.) You are right there, 
Mr. Grayham ! A truer thing never was said. 

Julia {interrupting hastily) . O father! we've been proposing 
to take a long drive to the lakes this afternoon ; are you willing? 

Mr. G. {sarcastically). Ask Mr. De Benham, my dear. 

Mr. De B. I have no objections to you using the horses, pro- 
vided you — 

Mr. G. {starting from chair angrily). Sir! Although your son 
and I have lived in this house peaceably and pleasantly for two 
months, it is very evident that you and I cannot, and — 

Mr. De B. Indeed ? and I presume that you are about to sug- 
gest that /take up my residence elsewhere. 

Mr. G. Mr. De Benham, you as a lawyer must be aware that I 
have a right to make the suggestion. 

Mr. De B. A right to make it ! 

Mr. G. Yes, sir; but I scorn to make use of my right, and I 
merely give your son notice that I shall go to-morrow, leaving it to 
his sense of justice to accord me reasonable damages. 

Mr. De B. Reasonable damages ! Haven't you taken up your 
quarters here, bag and baggage ; ordered my servants about ; ap- 
propriated whatever rooms you saw fit, for your own use, as if 
you were master here ? — and now talk of reasonable damages ! 



l6 A LIMB O' THE LAW. 

Mr. G. Well, sir ! and haven't I paid my rent in advance ? 

Mr. De B. Rent in advance, you crazy old fellow, you ! I'll — 

Gus (hastily}. Father! Mr. Grayham! Let me explain. lam 
the unhappy cause of all this misunderstanding between two whom 
I would have the best of friends. (Mr. De B. and Mr. G. look 
defiantly at each other.} When you went away, father, I was sadly- 
in debt. At first I thought that by uring my office as a lodging- 
place, and taking my meals at a cheap restaurant, I might, by a 
little economy, lay by enough to pay them all off; but while medi- 
tating upon this plan, an advertisement for a country residence met 
my eye. The thought immediately occurred to me that, as ours 
was to be vacant for three or four months, I might offer that and 
thus pay my debts ; and on the impulse of the "moment, without a 
thought as to consequences, I sent an advertisement to the Tran- 
script. The next day Clem called and remonstrated with me, 
reminding me of certain past experiences, and advising : me to keep 
out of it ; but then it was too late, and although I began to realize 
what I had done, I could not retract. The rest you already know. 
This gentleman applied, and all the arrangements being satisfactory 
to the parties concerned, myself in particular, he has taken up his 
residence here for the season. I know I have done wrong. I — 

Mr. De B. You rapscallion, you! You vagabond! You — 
{Walking floor :) If these ladies were not present, I'd — I — I — 
I — 

Mr. G. Mr. De Benham, calm yourself, I beg. He meant no 
harm ! I've been a boy myself, and I dare say you've cut up a 
prank or two also. Now that we understand the matter, I — here's 
my hand, sir. 

Mr. De B. (shaking hands). Mr. Grayham, I beg a thousand 
pardons. If I had but understood — (Dubiously.*) I thought the 
boy'd outgrown these freaks. I never could tell what he'd be up to 
next, and — 

Mr. G. Don't mention it, sir; don't mention it. It's a mild way 
of sowing wild oats ; but it's I who should beg your pardon. It 
was I who was guilty of losing temper. 

Mr. De B. You had plenty of provocation, sir. 

Mr. G. Let us forget it and be friends. 

Gus. Father, Mr. Grayham, I sincerely ask your forgiveness for 
being the cause of all this trouble. I really meant no harm, and 
had I but looked before leaping, I should never have done it. This 
has taught me a lesson, however, and should my debts ever increase 
to a hundred-fold of what they were, I would take a more honest 
method of liquidating them. 

Mr. G. My dear boy (shaking him by the hand), I know you 
meant no harm, therefore I freely forgive you. 

Mr. De B. Young man, you, as a lawyer, know that you have 
committed an offence that in courts of law would be looked upon as 
a crime. The fact of our relationship I do not look upon as an 
extenuating circumstance. This might have led to serious results. 



A LIMB O THE LAW. \J 

I advise you to be more careful in future ; yet, if Mr. Grayham can 
overlook the affair and forgive you, here is my hand. 

Gus {humbly). Thank you, sir. Thank you, Mr. Grayham. 

Mr. De B. But who the dickens sent me that telegram to be 
home by the 20th? 

All. Telegram ? 

Mr. De B. Telegram ? yes, telegram ! I received it several 
days ago, and after settling up my business hurried home. No 
name was signed, but I supposed it was all right. 

Mr. G. This looks like conspiracy. 

Clem, /sent the telegram, sir. I should have mentioned it to 
Gus, but wished to get even with him for a practical joke he once 
played on me at college. You see, about a year ago a lady and 
gentleman stepped into my office and desired me to make out a 
will. To my surprise the will, which named several hundred thou- 
sand dollars, was in favor of you, sir (to Mr. De B.), and your two 
children. Upon enquiry I found that the lady was your maiden 
sister ; the gentleman was her physician. She desired me to say 
nothing of this will, so of course I have not ; but two weeks ago I 
received word that she was dead, having been the victim of a 
steamer accident while crossing the Atlantic. She told me at the 
time of the making of the will, that the relations between yourself 
and her had not been pleasant, but she did not wish her property 
to go out of the family ; so your son and daughter are now indepen- 
dently wealthy. Allow me to congratulate you. This is why I sent 
the telegram, as there is much business which will require your 
supervision. I beg your pardon for any unpleasantness I may 
have caused, (Mr. De B. grasps his hand.') 

Mr. G. (shaking hands). Don^ mention it, Mr. Bancroft. Allow 
me to congratulate you, Mr. De Benham (shaking hands) ; and you, 
too, my dear, (to Alice), Well, Augustus, you'll have no more 
worry about debts, my boy. Ha, ha, ha ! 

Mr. De B. (sadly). So your poor Aunt Maria has gone, Alice. 
(Putting arm about her.) 

Alice. Yes, but I never saw her, did I, papa ? 

Mr. De B. No, my dear. She was displeased with my mar- 
riage, and has never come near me since. What a day of develop- 
ments this has been, Mr. Grayham ! If there are no more (smiling), 
perhaps one of us had better see why the dinner is delayed so 
long. 

Mr. G. (laughing). I told my servant James a while since, that 
I was entertaining a crank or a lunatic here, and he was to take 
orders from no one but myself. Til countermand it now. (All 
laugh . ) 

Gus. There is one more development, father. Mr. Grayham 
has promised that his daughter shall be my wife. Shall we not 
keep our friends here until — 

Mr. De B. After the wedding ? By all means ; I could not 
think of letting them leave until we too return to the city. Miss 



1 8 A LIMB O' THE LAW. 

Julia, I could not have selected a better wife myself, and I'm sure 
Alice will welcome you. And, Clem, I have seen certain symp- 
toms in your direction which I could not misinterpret. If there is 
any young man whom I esteem more than another, it's yourself, 
and I willingly give Alice into your charge ; but do not take her 
away. Consider your home with me. Mr. Grayham, I take it for 
granted that you will remain until we close up the house here. Do 
you agree ? 

Mr. G. Certainly, most certainly, if Mrs. Grayham is content, 
and thinks she can manage a double wedding — and what woman 
couldn't ? I — 

Mrs. G. There, there, pa, you don't know what your saying — 
of course I can ! 

Mr. De B. Then we will atone for what might have ended most 
disastrously; but, young men, since you have been the cause of all 
this misunderstanding, let me impress it upon your minds while the 
events are still fresh, to always look before you leap. 

James {throwing open folding doors and bowing). Dinner 
ready, sir ! 

CURTAIN. 



A New Comedy. 



COUNSEL FOR THE PLAINTIFF. 

A COMEDY IN TWO ACTS. 

By ST. CLAIR HURD. 

For four male and five female characters. Scenery, two interiors, 
easily arranged; costumes modern and simple. Plays an hour and a 
half. This little piece has more plot than is usual in plays of its length, 
and works up to an exciting climax. Solomon Nathan is a capital 
comedy part, and Phineas Phunnel and Phcebe Stopper excellent eccen- 
tric character parts. This piece has been many times successfully per- 
formed from manuscript. 

Price .... 15 cents. 



FOR FEMALE CHARACTERS ONLY. 



A VISION OF FAIR WOMEN. 

A DRAMATIC PARAPHRASE IN ONE SCENE, 
Based upon Tennyson's " Dream of Fair Women." 

By EDITH LYNWOOD WINN. 

(As presented by the Polymnia Society, of Shorter College, 
Home, Ga., April, 1889.) 

Thirty-nine girls are called for by the full text of this excellent 
entertainment, besides the " Dreamer " who has the vision ; but a 
smaller number may be used, at pleasure, by simply reducing the num- 
ber of tableaux. No scenery is required, and the costumes can be easily 
contrived by home talent. This is a very picturesque and enjoyable 
entertainment, and by giving a large number of pretty girls a chance to 
look their best, is sure to please them and every one else. 

Price .... 15 cents. 



WHO'S TO INHERIT? 

A COMEDY IN ONE ACT. 
FOR FEMALE CHARACTERS ONLY. 

For nine female characters. Scene, an easy interior; costumes, 
modern and simple. Margery is a "rough diamond," who always speaks 
her mind. Miss Chatter, Miss Pry and Miss Nicely are a very amusing 
trio of gossips, to whom Mrs. Fitzfudge's sharp tongue is a terror. 

Price .... 15 cents. 



A NEW PLAY FOR GIRLS. 



The Chaperon, 



A COMEDY IN THREE ACTS, 

By RACHEL E. BAKER, 

PART AUTHOR OF " AFTER TAPS," ETC. 



Fifteen female characters. Scenery not difficult. Costumes, tennis gowns 

and modern street and evening gowns, with picturesque 

Gypsy costumes for Miriam and Jill. Time 

in playing, two and a half hours. 



Price 



SYNOPSIS: 

ACT I. Jack and Jill. A love game. Cousins for sale. " My kingdom for 
a hairpin." The French teacher. A few conundrums. Miriam and Jill. 
The Gypsy's blessing. Nora and the French language. JlllUt-'foux and 
Billy Manahan. An invitation. "I will be -your chaperon ! " Telling for- 
tunes. The. Tennis Drill. Tales out of school. Joyce and the beggars. 
The accusation. Joyce to the rescue. " I cannot look into your eyes and 
believe you guilty." Under a cloud. The Gypsy's prophecy. "Miriam the 
Gypsy has spoken, and she never breaks her word." 

ACT II. Tm? Chaperon. In the studio. Nora and the man in armor. A 
spiritual manifestation. Eavesdropping, Locked in. The artist's model. 
A little lark. The bogus chaperon. The skeleton in the closet. Ilomeo 
and Juliet adapted. Miriam the Gypsy. The secret of the papers. " God 
be with them and w.th those to whom they belong!" Masquerading. 
Nora's jig. A surprise and an escape. The sciiool-ma am outwitted. The 
Minuet. Jill and Joyce. The locket. " It means that the waif has found 
a home at last ! " Sisters. The Gypsy again. " Your duty lies with them, 
make the:r lives as happy as you have mine." 

ACT III. "Like Other Girls." A five o'clock tea. Anticipations. The 
French teacher again. A lesson in politeness. A tiice hot cup of tea. 
Nora's revenge. Apologies. Mademoiselle's confession. I took it ; it was 
only for ze revenge." Forgiveness. " Rushing tea." Confessions. From 
grave to gay. An Adamless Eden. Superfluous man: a few portraits of 
him. Explanations. The fulfilment of Miriam's prophecy. A mystery 
eleared. "The little one I mourned as dead is alive." Our chaperon. 



ANOTHER "COUNTRY SCHOOL." 



THE OLD-FASHIONED 

HUSKING BEE. 

AN OLD FOLKS ENTERTAINMENT IN ONE SCENE. 



By NETTIE H. PELHAM. 



For eleven male and five female characters, and as many more as desired. 
Scene, the interior of a barn, easily arranged ; costumes, old fashioned. Plays 
forty minutes or more, according to number of songs and specialties introduced. 
Very easy to get up, and very funny. An excellent introduction for a dance, 
supper or sociable, where a mixed entertainment is desired. 
Price 15 Cents. 

SYNOPSIS: 
SCENE. — Uncle Nathan's barn. Bobby and Scipio. In black and white. A 
few conundrums. " Silence am gold." Gathering of the neighbors. Music 
and fun. Thomas Jefferson is heard from. " Von leedle song," by Solomon 
Levi. Betsy and Josiah. A leap-year courtship. Algernon Fitznoodle and 
Little Lord Fauntleroy. The dude and the darling. Fitznoodle takes a 
tumble. Patrick and Ah Sin. Race prejudices. Harmony out of discord. 
Music. Betsy and the swing. A little mistake. Betsy recites. The 
Humanipho>'E. Pat and Kitty. The red ear. " Hurrah for supper ! " 



A DOUBLE SHUFFLE 



.A. COMEDY I2sT ONE ACT, 



By HARRY O. HANLON, 



Three male and two female characters. Scenery and costumes very simple. 
An admirable little parlor piece, playing about thirty-five minutes. Fred 
Somers, a collegian, with a taste for practical joking, tries to play a little joke 
on his sister and his fiancee, but they succeed in turning the tables completely 
upon him and his two college chums. Very bright and amusing. A sure hit. 

Price, .... 15 Cents. 



TWO NEW COMEDIES 

By the Author of "A RICE PUDDING." 

M A utograph I etier. 



By ESTHER B. TIFFANY, 

The author of "Anita's Trial," "Young Mr. Pritchard,' 
"That Patrick," etc. 

Price, ------- 515 cents. 

A comedy drama in three acts for five male and five female charac 
ters. This latest play of Miss Tiffany is by far the strongest work from 
her pen, and unites to the brilliancy and grace -which characterized heb 
earlier pieces, dramatic power of a high order. A charming little love- 
story, tender in sentiment but without mawkishncss, is cleverly combined 
with a plot of a graver nature which is developed in. a series of scenes c; 
great interest and power. As in all her pieres, th 2 dialogue is uistin- 
guished by brilliancy, and its humor genuine but refined. Two scenes 
only, both interiors, are required, and the properties and dresses are 
simple, modern in character, and easily gotten up. Equally suitable 
for stage or parlor performance. Plays ?bout two hours. 



THE WAY TO HIS POCKET. 

By thf. Same Author. 

Prfice, -------15 cents. 

■ A comedy in one act for two male and three female character^. Scene 
an interior, costumes modern. All its requirements are simple to the 
last degree and offer no difficulties. This little play is in Miss Tiffany's 
best veim and admirably continues the series of parlor pieces, refined 
in humov «>4 clever in plan, of which she is the author. Plays about 
an hour- 



For Other Novelties Bee Other Side, 



Baker's Descriptive Catalogue. 



GEORGE RIDDLE'S READINGS. 

A representative collection of the most popular selections of thi . 
most popular elocutionist. Many of the readings contained in this vol 
ume were written expressly for Mr. Riddle, and are here printed for the 
first time. 

197 pp., cloth. Price, $1.00, net. By mail, $1.10. 

CONTENTS : 
COME HERE! From the German . . By Genevieve Ward 
A CURE FOR DUDES . . By John T. Wheelwright 
A SEWING "SCHOOL FOR SCANDAL" " 
UNCLE MICAJAH'S TREAT AT 

SLAMBASKET BEACH ..." 

And other choice pieces, original and selected. 



THE VON BOYLE RECITATIONS. 

The dialect recitations of Ackland Von Boyle, vocalist and 
character delineator, arranged by himself. An excellent collection of 
humorous recitations, comprising German and Chinese dialect. 
68 pp., paper covers . . Price, 15 cents. 



BAKER'S A. B. C. LEAFLETS. 

A series of selected recitations, published singly, for the economy 
and convenience of readers. These are published occasionally, as 
material offers. The series now contains : — 

THE ADVANCE By F. H. Gassaway 

AN INNOCENT DRUMMER . 

COMPANY K 

4 pp. each, paper . . Price, 5 cents each. 



THREE POPULAR SONCS. 

SHAMROCK AND ROSE. 

MY IRISH QUEEN. 

MA BOUCHALEEN BAWN. 

And other music incidental to the favorite Irish drama, 

" Shamrock and Rose." 

By R. W. Lanigan and Leo A. Munier. 

The three published together at 60 cents, obtainable only of 
the publishers. 



Something for " Secret Societies.' 



JOINING THE TINPANITES, 

OR, PADDY MCFLING'S EXPERIENCE. 

(PART I.) 

A MOCK INITIATION. 

FOR THE AMUSEMENT AND INSTRUCTION OF SECRET SOCIETIES. ADAPTED TO ALL 

ORDERS, AND CONTAINING NOTHING TO OFFEND ANY 

SECRET ORGANIZATION. 

B^r David Hill, 

Author of " Forced to the War," " Bound by an Oath," " Out of his Sphere," 
"Placer Gold," "The Granger," etc. 

For thirteen male characters and supers. Scenery unimportant, the 
stage representing the interior of a lodge-room. Costumes, burlesque regalia. 
Plays forty-five minutes. This is an uproarously funny travestie of the forms 
of initiation, and is just the thing for a lodge-room entertainment. Any number 
of men can assist as members, etc. , 

Price, ... 15 cents. 



By the Author of " A Box of Monkeys." 

The Corner-Lot Chorus. 

A FARCE IN ONE ACT. 

F0R • FEMALE » CHARACTERS • 0NL2Y 
By Grace Livingston Furniss. 

As Originally Performed by "The Twelfth -Night Club," at the 
Lyceum Theatre, New York, on May 7, 1891. 

Seven female characters who speak, and ten Jury Girls. Costumes, modern 
and tasteful. Scenery of little or no importance. Plays about forty minutes. 
This clever little piece, by the author of "A Box of Monkeys," satirizes with 
a two-edged blade a foolish social exclusiveness and the weak side of amateur 
actors, and with bright and clever performers is a sure success. It affords a 
chance for elegant dressing, if desired, and for telling local hits. In its original 
performance by professional actresses it was a laughing success. 

Price, ... 35 cents. 



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